Ariel announces 350hp Atom 3.5R

The slightly bonkers road-going racer that is the Ariel Atom is now even faster, as the British company announces the launch of the 350hp 3.5R.

Like most Atoms built by the small Somerset firm, the 3.5R is powered by a Honda Civic Type R engine – this time with pressure from its supercharger boosted to 11psi, resulting in an extra 40hp over the Atom 3.5.

This has been done using a charge-cooler system, housed in one of the twin side pods – while a remote oil cooler is in the other.

Gearchange is via a pneumatic paddle shift system, as seen in the V8 Ariel Atom 500, which can upshift in less than 40 milliseconds and downshift in less than 50 milliseconds.

Like all Ariel Atoms, the 350R saves weight by cutting out luxuries such as doors, carpets and a windscreen. The result? 0-60mph in a staggering 2.5 seconds, and hitting 100mph in a further 3.5 seconds. It’ll hit a top speed of 155mph, if you’re feeling brave.

Ariel’s director Simon Saunders said: “Our aim is to ensure that each customer has exactly the right car for their particular needs.

“Our approach means that every car is completely individual, as are our customers, and no two cars are identical. By combining elements of the Atom V8 with the Honda engined cars we have increased customer choice and come up with a truly stunning car.”

Prices for the Atom 3.5R will start at £54,000 (plus VAT) – a lot of money for not a lot of physical car, but you do get a phenomenal amount of performance for your buck.

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